YPF said in a statement on Friday that the signing was led by its president and CEO, Horacio Marín and the governor of Río Negro, Alberto Weretilneck.
During the signing, Marín highlighted that “this joint framework represents a key step forward in advancing a strategic project that will position Argentina as a reliable global energy supplier, generate quality employment, and promote long-term investment.”
YPF said the agreement provides for 30 years of fiscal and regulatory stability, complementary to the large-scale investment incentive regime (RIGI), ensuring predictability for investors participating in the LNG project’s value chain.
It also establishes clear conditions for relevant non-tax aspects related to the execution of the project within the province.
In addition to the fiscal framework, the agreement incorporates a technical and professional training program aimed at strengthening local capabilities and promoting employment in the project’s area of influence, YPF said.
Pluspetrol deal
YPF also announced in a separate statement that it has signed an asset swap agreement with Pluspetrol through which both companies reinforce their commitment to Vaca Muerta and move forward with the development of key areas of the unconventional formation.
Under the agreement, Pluspetrol becomes a shareholder in Vaca Muerta Inversiones, a company controlled by YPF with interests in the La Escalonada and Rincon de Ceniza blocks.
In turn, YPF acquires Pluspetrol’s stake in the Meseta Buena Esperanza, Aguada Villanueva, and Las Tacanas blocks, three strategic areas for the development of the Argentina LNG project.
YPF noted thattThe closing of the transaction remains subject to the fulfillment of the conditions precedent established in the agreement.
Argentina LNG
YPF and its partners are working on the giant Argentina LNG export project with a capacity of up to 30 million mt.
Argentina’s Southern Energy, owned by Pan American Energy, YPF, Pampa Energia, Harbour Energy, and Golar LNG, took a final investment decision on the second floating LNG production unit in August last year.
SESA will install two converted FLNGs owned by Golar LNG in Argentina.
Last month, UK-based LNG giant Shell decided not to participate in the 10 mtpa phase of the YPF-led Argentina LNG project for which it signed a project development agreement in December 2024
In October 2025, Italy’s Eni signed the final technical project description with YPF for the third phase of the latter’s Argentina LNG export project.
This agreement followed the heads of agreement signed by the two companies in June this year.
The project involves the production, processing, transportation, and liquefaction of gas for export through two floating liquefaction units (FLNG) with a capacity of 6 mtpa, in addition to the valorisation and export of associated liquids.
Adnoc’s investment unit XRG also signed a non-binding agreement with YPF and Eni to join the 12 mtpa phase of the integrated Argentina LNG project.
